Ethics code: IR.USWR.REC.1403.245
1- Geriatrics Deparetment, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran, kodakyar Ave, daneshjo Blvd,Evin,University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2- Social welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,gh.ghaedamini@uswr.ac.ir
2- Social welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,
Abstract: (16 Views)
Objectives: Loneliness constitutes a critical psychosocial challenge among never-married older adults, a rapidly expanding yet persistently understudied population. This qualitative scoping review aims to systematically map and synthesize the existing body of literature addressing the lived experience, determinants, and consequences of loneliness within this specific demographic group.
Methods: A scoping review was undertaken following the Arksey–O’Malley framework and the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines, including studies indexed in major international databases through 2025. Study selection followed the Population–Concept–Context framework and involved independent double screening of 11,225 records. The review included 38 studies (2007–2025). The methodological rigor of the selected studies was evaluated using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists to determine the overall quality and characteristics of the available body of evidence.
Results: In total, 38 published studies from 2007 to 2025 showed that loneliness in never-married older adults is a multidimensional phenomenon influenced by individual, social, economic, and cultural factors. Findings showed these older adults compared with married individuals experience higher levels of emotional and social loneliness. Limited support networks, economic problems, social stigma, and impaired health were key related factors. In contrast, social participation, supportive relationships, spirituality, and maintaining independence were identified as effective coping strategies for loneliness management among them.
Discussion and Conclusion: Policymakers must adopt an ecological framework, moving beyond individual interventions to redesign welfare services for non-traditional family structures. Practical priorities include promoting ‘alternative kinships,’ integrating digital technologies to mitigate isolation, and launching public campaigns to dismantle the cultural stigma of lifelong singlehood. Furthermore, practitioners should implement routine loneliness screenings while differentiating between voluntary and involuntary singlehood to foster social resilience. By recognizing the varied pathways of aging and reinforcing institutional and community support systems, these approaches contribute to improved well-being among older adults who have never married.
Methods: A scoping review was undertaken following the Arksey–O’Malley framework and the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines, including studies indexed in major international databases through 2025. Study selection followed the Population–Concept–Context framework and involved independent double screening of 11,225 records. The review included 38 studies (2007–2025). The methodological rigor of the selected studies was evaluated using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists to determine the overall quality and characteristics of the available body of evidence.
Results: In total, 38 published studies from 2007 to 2025 showed that loneliness in never-married older adults is a multidimensional phenomenon influenced by individual, social, economic, and cultural factors. Findings showed these older adults compared with married individuals experience higher levels of emotional and social loneliness. Limited support networks, economic problems, social stigma, and impaired health were key related factors. In contrast, social participation, supportive relationships, spirituality, and maintaining independence were identified as effective coping strategies for loneliness management among them.
Discussion and Conclusion: Policymakers must adopt an ecological framework, moving beyond individual interventions to redesign welfare services for non-traditional family structures. Practical priorities include promoting ‘alternative kinships,’ integrating digital technologies to mitigate isolation, and launching public campaigns to dismantle the cultural stigma of lifelong singlehood. Furthermore, practitioners should implement routine loneliness screenings while differentiating between voluntary and involuntary singlehood to foster social resilience. By recognizing the varied pathways of aging and reinforcing institutional and community support systems, these approaches contribute to improved well-being among older adults who have never married.
Type of Study: Systematic Review |
Subject:
Elderly
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This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 (CC-By-NC 4.0), which permits use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes.
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